Golden Chariot Luxury Train Gets Major Upgrades Ahead Of 2026-27 Tourist Season

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation has announced an upgraded edition of the iconic Golden Chariot for the 2026-27 season. The revamped train will feature enhanced onboard amenities, refreshed interiors, curated cultural experiences and improved hospitality services. The iconic train will take passengers to the cultural gems of South India.

The updated Golden Chariot comes with refurbished cabins featuring luxury furnishings, contemporary decor and subtly scented bath amenities that reflect quiet luxury, reported ANI. Meals are served on international-brand crockery with crisp white linens, while Smart TVs and Wi-Fi streaming turn cabins into private cinemas without disrupting the train's calm atmosphere.

Safety and service have also been upgraded with unobtrusive CCTV, advanced fire alarms and a professional hospitality staff. Complimentary house beverages are served as a subtle touch. The train can accommodate 80 guests across 40 cabins, with double-bed and twin-bed options. It also has a dedicated cabin for differently abled passengers.

The train features two signature restaurants - Ruchi and Nalapaka, which offer Indian and international cuisines. The onboard experience is rounded out by the Madira lounge bar and the Arogya Spa & Fitness Centre.

Also Read: Karnataka's Luxury Train, The Golden Chariot, To Expand Routes To Mumbai, Aurangabad

Curated Itineraries For Golden Chariot Luxury Train

Curated itineraries have been announced for the upcoming season:

1. Pride of Karnataka

According to the official website, the Pride of Karnataka itinerary spans five nights and six days. The journey commences with an immediate transition into nature with the arrival at Bandipur National Park. Guests also get to visit Mysuru, Hampi and Goa before heading back for the final arrival in Bengaluru.

2. Jewels of South

The Jewels of South itinerary offers an expansive five-night and six-day cross-state expedition. The route covers Mysuru, Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur and Cochin. Guests explore royal Mysuru and the ancient rock-cut Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram before marvelling at Thanjavur's monumental Brihadeeswarar Temple. The trip concludes with a cultural tour of colonial Fort Kochi and a houseboat cruise along the scenic Kumarakom backwaters.

3. Glimpses of Karnataka

For a shorter trip, this three-night, four-day journey focuses on major heritage sites. It begins with an evening game drive through Bandipur National Park, followed by a guided tour of the opulent Mysuru Palace. Guests spend the final full day tracking the boulder-strewn archaeological ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire in Hampi.

Also Read: 4 Luxury Trains In India That Let You Travel Like Royalty

Promotional Offers

IRCTC has announced discounts for select departures next season. Fares have been reduced by up to 20%, subject to availability. 

Bookings confirmed with payment by 30 June 2026 will receive an additional 5% early-bird discount. 

The package remains all-inclusive, covering meals, select beverages, guided tours in AC coaches, monument entry fees, and scheduled dining stops off-train along the route. This setup allows travellers to experience the season's programme with consistent comfort and quality.